​Honestly, networking can be a little bit daunting to think about. How do you just go up to someone and talk to them; how do you not be awkward; how do you actually make it meaningful? If you want to learn my tips for networking, I have some great ones in my video blog. Here, I’ll be shedding some light on the benefits of networking.

Some people see networking as unnecessary. They can do it by themselves and don’t need other people’s help, and sometimes they’re right. They don’t NEED other people’s help, but it definitely makes things easier. Networking is how you get that help. If you reach out to people and stay in contact with them, you can learn from them and use their success to benefit you.

For me, I network mostly just to meet people, and if they help me with anything I need, that’s a bonus. It’s an incredible feeling to get to meet up with a bunch of people you met at past DECA conferences. Personally, I have friends from my first ELS who I still talk to at least every couple of weeks.

Networking is absolutely scary, but if you learn how to, it’s completely doable. Plus, the fear is easily outweighed by all of the help and support you can get from networking. To network, just talk to people, and you’ll be amazed at where those conversations can take you.